Cathay Pacific elevates the in-flight experience with a revamped Betsy Beer—now served in every cabin on all intercontinental routes
For discerning travelers seeking a unique taste of Hong Kong at 35,000 feet, Cathay Pacific’s celebrated Betsy Beer has made a triumphant comeback in 2025. This exclusive craft beer, beloved by passengers since its debut, has been reimagined with a vibrant new design and an enhanced flavor profile. Betsy Beer, originally crafted for premium cabins on select routes, now delights guests across all classes on Cathay Pacific’s global long-haul network. Named after the airline’s pioneering Douglas DC-3, “Betsy,” which helped shape Hong Kong’s aviation legacy in the mid-20th century, the beer pays homage to Cathay’s storied history.
With its latest relaunch, Betsy Beer is available to every long-haul passenger—an experience previously reserved for First and Business Class. Travelers can also enjoy the brew in Cathay Pacific’s award-winning lounges at Hong Kong International Airport, making it a standout pre-flight ritual for connoisseurs of fine beverages.
This modern iteration of Betsy Beer is a citrus-forward Pale Ale, thoughtfully crafted in collaboration with Gweilo Beer, a leading Hong Kong craft brewery recognized for its innovation. The recipe features a base of predominantly unroasted malted barley, complemented by a touch of roasted barley to provide subtle sweetness and notes reminiscent of fresh bread, biscuits, and caramel. Locally sourced orange peel is infused during the brewing process, imparting a bright, zesty character. After fermentation with Gweilo’s proprietary ale yeast, the beer undergoes a generous dry hopping with aromatic citrus and orange-forward hops, resulting in a layered, refreshing profile ideal for high-altitude enjoyment.
Vivian Lo, Cathay Pacific’s General Manager of Customer Experience and Design, shares: “Our guests have always appreciated the character and craftsmanship of Betsy Beer. We’re excited to bring this bespoke Hong Kong creation back on board, reflecting our commitment to curating exceptional experiences for every traveler.”
